As we prepare to draw the curtain on 2017, I want to talk to you a moment about what we have all been through together and what we must work to achieve in the coming year.

Let me be clear - we have endured too much violence, too much pain and sorrow - too much loss. Our hearts ache for the families and loved ones left behind by young lives snatched by gunshot on our streets. Our hearts ache for the young and old alike who are trapped in places where violence is a way of life. Our hearts ache for our City - a truly great City - whose identity has been defined by these tragedies for too long.

As your Mayor - I’m determined that these circumstances will not be our future, they will not define us, nor will we allow them to resist our determined efforts to change our narrative going forward.

I want to assure you momentum and progress are underway.

Violence Reduction is of the highest priority, as well as regaining confidence in our Police Department, which is why earlier this year we forged ahead with the Consent Decree that will help us hire, reform and train our police officers, update technology and increase the number of officers on our force who live in our city.

Many of our city neighborhoods are too dark - making people feel unsafe. That's why we are replacing over 70,000 light bulbs in our city to create brighter walking paths with LED lighting, and adding 6,000 new lighting structures across our city.

The Violence Reduction Initiative which I implemented nearly 3 months ago is working. It has already created a new way of collaborating across our City agencies, and requires working hand-in-hand with our law enforcement officers to immediately address circumstances that contribute to the sense of hopelessness that leads directly to violence.

While no killing on our streets is acceptable, this November - compared to the same time last year and the previous 10 months - we experienced a reduction to 23 from an average of 30-35 murders a month.

Essential to reducing violence is improving the trust of our citizens in their police - men and women who every day put their lives on the line to serve and protect. I am committed to strengthening the police force with an adequate number of officers needed to address crime effectively, and meet problems before they result in bigger problems. We need to equip them with the essential technologies that exist to protect citizens better, and also ensure the integrity of our police.

We are grateful to Bloomberg Philanthropies for the $5 million investment to improve policing in Baltimore.

You will remember that I launched the “CALL TO ACTION” initiative - a platform that gives all citizens the opportunity to be a part of the solution to reduce violence and strengthen our communities.

We are uniting City residents, businesses, non-profits, churches, educators, and our City agencies to provide real solutions to the real problems our people face, with public safety first and foremost.

Also essential, is improving the health of Baltimore by expanding resources and opportunities for people in need. Just recently, I announced our $1.5 million new partnership with CareFirst BlueCross BlueShield to deal with the opioid crisis in our communities.

There is no more urgent effort than improving the prospects of Baltimore’s Youth - giving our young people additional paths for achievement with investments in education and community programs. This is why I made Baltimore City Community College tuition free for graduating Baltimore City public high school students starting in 2018.

I see this as one of the most critical paths to success, providing higher education, and equipping our young people with the skills they need to succeed in life.

We're also initiating a program to focus on violent youth thanks to the $6 million contribution by the public and private sector.

We will expand Safe Streets - a program aimed at interrupting violence - to 6 other communities in Baltimore. It’s imperative that we create greater access to affordable housing for our citizens who otherwise are trapped in sub-standard and unhealthy housing complexes. In our bonding package alone I increased bond funds for affordable housing from $6 to $10 million. In 2018, partnering with HELPING UP MISSION, we will see the creation of 300 new units of quality housing for the homeless.

Economic Opportunity for those in search of jobs, including ex-offenders, is also a focus of this administration. Our office of Employment Development is now knocking on doors to help people in need of employment.

We also have a mobile unit moving through neighborhoods to help individuals become employed, and we're adding another in the Spring.

Community investment in neighborhoods, which has been neglected for decades is underway. and will help transform neighborhoods and lives in East and West Baltimore.

All of these actions - and many others - are making a positive, measurable difference. The results, I realize, don’t happen quick enough - but you can be assured that they will happen and as your Mayor, I will not let up. But neither can you.

There is nothing more important to me and to our future than an end to the violence that we have experienced this past year. Without question, getting illegal guns out of the hands of criminals and off our streets is essential. But equally essential is that we address together the conditions that give rise to violence - hopelessness, lack of opportunity, drug dependence, lack of basic needs, lack of job and economic opportunity.

These are the conditions we are working to change - and we need your continued support.

So let us now turn the page on 2017, acknowledging that we CAN, MUST and WILL do better in the New Year ahead.

I want to thank you for all that you're doing where you live, in your neighborhoods, schools, churches, and workplaces to make Baltimore a place where all citizens feel safe, have sufficient opportunity and can pursue their aspirations and achieve their full potential.

Each and every day I’m grateful for this tremendous opportunity to serve you.

Although our challenges are many, they are not greater than our determination to create a better, safer and more prosperous Baltimore.

Together, let us make the New Year upon us a truly happy and healthy one.

With major development on the horizon, getting Baltimore back to work is our City’s greatest opportunity to think big about developing homegrown talent and mobilizing residents who are unemployed. Next Wednesday, September 27th, the Department of Human Resources (DHR) will take major steps towards creating a career pipeline that accelerates local talent through the launch of the WorkBaltimore Empowerment to Employment Career Convention - Baltimore’s first-ever city-wide career and opportunities fair.

This convention is more than a job fair – it’s a platform for local employers who are actively hiring to connect with and discover the great talent that exists within our city. If you or someone you know is in need of a job or seeking to transition careers, register today. Facing obstacles like a criminal record or homelessness, a lack of professional attire or limited access to transportation? Don't let that be a barrier. The WorkBaltimore helpline is just a phone call away and available to connect those in need with essential support services at 410-396-9897.

When it comes to moving Baltimore forward, residents are the ones we're seeking to invigorate our city, and my goal is to ensure that every resident who has a desire to work knows how to access great career and training opportunities.

This month alone, DHR has led more than 200 daily pre-convention workshops to help jobseekers refresh their skills, resumes, and readiness - and there's still time to register for remaining seminars. On Tuesday, I had the pleasure of coaching the Essentials to Interviewing workshop, where I met and mentored many great residents who are now ready for hire. Check out my special CharmTV segment to meet some of them, and watch highlights of our mock interviews. If you were not able to attend but would like to participate in a session, simply follow this link to register!

And, don't forget to add a visit to the New Beginnings Boutique, located at the Department of Human Resources headquarters.

The final element of job readiness is entering the door with confidence, which starts with knowing that you are dressed for success. Thanks to the generous support of volunteers and contributors, a great selection of gently-used business clothing from blazers, to blouses to suits – for men and women - are available exclusively to convention registrants at the New Beginnings Boutique, open weekdays from 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. at 201 East Baltimore Street.

Haircut and style vouchers are also available, but please be mindful, Tuesday, September 26this its final day of operation.

Baltimore 'Innovation Team' to target police recruitment in first assignment

Mayor Catherine Pugh has given Baltimore’s new Bloomberg-funded “Innovation Team” its first assignment: Figure out how to recruit more police officers and retain them.

“We work on a single big city challenge identified by the mayor for a period of many months,” Hymowitz said in an interview. “Given public safety as an overarching issue in the city, the mayor has asked us to work on supporting police recruitment and hiring."

Sagamore Development Company announced today that Goldman Sachs has joined the Port Covington redevelopment effort as an equity investor, committing $233 million to the project, the largest single private equity investment made by the firm’s Urban Investment Group to date. In addition to securing outside investment from Goldman Sachs UIG, the Port Covington development team has also negotiated robust, comprehensive community benefits agreements with the City and the surrounding communities, providing a model for similar developments.

What not to miss at the 2017 Baltimore Book Festival

The Baltimore Book Festival, the city’s annual celebration of the literary arts, returns to the Inner Harbor this weekend. This year’s festival will feature more than 500 authors, presentations on 11 stages, over 90 literary exhibitors as well as more than 3,000 books available for purchase. Some of the distinguished authors presenting at this year’s festival include Dr. Michael Eric Dyson, author of, “Tears We Cannot Stop,” and Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, author of, “Purple Hibiscus.”

A byte to eat: Students grow food using tabletop greenhouses controlled by computers

Half an hour into a cooking competition at Green Street Academy, Tyana Givens, 15, dipped a plastic spoon into a pot simmering with ground turkey, tomatoes, bell peppers, onions, garlic and mushrooms over a burner in a science classroom.

She and the two other students, Kalimah Ball and Maya Smith, both 17, were making meat sauce from scratch to toss with rotini.

The girls had spent the past five weeks learning how to grow their own produce using food computers — tabletop greenhouses controlled by computer programs — at Green Street Academy, a charter school in Baltimore. The course, which weaved together lessons on programming, food systems and agriculture, culminated with an “Iron Chef”-style cooking contest. (Baltimore Sun)

The Maryland State Department of Education will target principals in Baltimore for leadership training in a bid to turn around some of the city’s struggling schools, state and city officials said.

A memorandum of understanding signed by city schools CEO Sonja Santelises this month outlines the state’s plan to help improve schools in the bottom 5 percent in the state. Of the 27 priority schools, 24 are in Baltimore. (Baltimore Sun)

Baltimore Program Providing Low-Income Older Adults with Vital Home Repairs Grows to $12 Million

The Harry and Jeanette Weinberg Foundation, the Stulman Foundation, and the City of Baltimore announced the expansion of 'Housing Upgrades to Benefit Seniors (HUBS).

The program involves 16 partners that provides home modifications and repairs as well as wraparound services that older adults need to remain independent. Organizers say the goal of the program is to eliminate the current backlog of more than 600 low-income, older adult households waiting for repairs. Some seniors have reported waiting for as long as three years to receive repairs to their roofs, furnaces, and hot water heaters. (WBFF)

Mayor Pugh's Weekly Press Availability

At Mayor Pugh's latest press conference she presented a proclamation in recognition of Prostate Cancer and Sickle-Cell Anemia Awareness Month, introduced Teen Biz Challenge Winner Lacha’ Guy, and introduced the Innovation Team, a new department within City government working in partnership with Bloomberg Philanthropies.

There is Still Time to Register for the WorkBaltimore Empowerment to Employment Convention

On Wednesday, September 27th, the City of Baltimore and the Department of Human Resources will host the WorkBaltimore Empowerment to Employment Convention at the Baltimore Convention Center. This event is designed to connect Baltimore City residents to employers in the area. Over the month leading up to this event, the City will offer job-readiness workshops and related activities.

The Baltimore Running Festival is as exciting for Baltimore as it is for the thousands of participants who will ascend on our city in a few short weeks. As founder of the festival and an avid runner, Mayor Pugh is inspired by this important tradition, which also has a very positive economic impact on the City. The Baltimore Running Festival generates an annual economic impact of more than $40 million. This year’s festival is estimated to attract upwards of 24,000 runners. Among recent announcements are a new finish line location and many exciting attractions!

Apply for a MECU Neighborhood Event Grant

Your community can earn up to $1,000 for an event such as block party, park clean up, or festival. Each year, the MECU Neighborhood Event Grants program awards cash grants to Baltimore neighborhood associations and community-based non-profit organizations for fun community events. The deadline to apply is October 1, 2017.

Mayor Catherine Pugh has proclaimed Saturday, September 23, 2017, Museum Day Live! in Baltimore. Museum-goers can head to the Museum Day Live! website to download one free ticket, good for two people, for Smithsonian magazine’s 13th annual celebration. Each ticket grants the ticket holder, and one guest, free access to any participating museum on September 23. One ticket is permitted per email address.

Now Accepting Applications for the Green, Healthy, Smart Challenge Grant

All City Schools are invited to apply for grant funds for student-led environmental projects! Grants range from $1,000-$2,500 and can be used for activities such as planting a schoolyard garden, holding a recycled art show, distributing recycling bins, and much more. Applications are due November 13, 2017.

A Sneak Peek of What to Expect at the Baltimore Book Festival

The Baltimore Book Festival, Baltimore’s annual celebration of the literary arts returns to the Inner Harbor Friday, September 22 through Sunday, September 24, 2017. This year’s festival features more than 500 presenting authors, programming on 11 stages, more than 90 literary exhibitors, 3,000-plus books available for purchase, local Maryland food and craft beverage vendors, live music, children’s activities and more. Some of the renowned authors appearing at this year’s festival include radio host, professor and New York Times contributing writer Michael Eric Dyson, Tears We Cannot Stop; Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, among many others!

Join Mayor Pugh for the City of Baltimore Small Business Procurement Fair

Join the U.S. Conference of Mayors, Partner America Program, Mayor Catherine E. Pugh, and Mayor’s Office of Small, Minority and Women Business to learn about contracting opportunities with the City of Baltimore's procuring agencies. Enjoy speakers and presentation of the 2017 Partner America Small Business Advocate Award. For more information, call 410-396-3818.

Nominate a Corporate Leader for the 43rd Annual Mayor's Business Recognition Awards

Each year the Mayor of the City of Baltimore joins with the Greater Baltimore Committee and the Baltimore Development Corporation to recognize businesses that have demonstrated significant corporate leadership and service in improving the quality of life in Baltimore. We invite you to nominate a deserving company for the 2017 Mayor’s Business Recognition Award. Nominations must be received by September 29, 2017.

Sign-up Today to Join #TeamPugh in Taking on Breast Cancer

Mayor Catherine. E. Pugh invites you to join #TEAMPUGH in support of the Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure, benefiting survivors of breast cancer and cancer research. The Susan G. Komen race for the Cure returns to Baltimore City for its 25th anniversary on October 15th, 2017, featuring a 5K course through South Baltimore, beginning and ending at McHenry Row.

In an age of ever-changing demand for rapid technology growth, government must be more nimble to respond to citizen and business needs. With this in mind, and following a national search, I recently appointed Director Frank Johnson to lead the Mayor's Office of Information and Technology (MOIT) as Chief Information Officer (CIO) and Chief Digital Officer (CDO). Director Johnson brings a wealth of experience, and joins the City of Baltimore from the private sector, formerly serving as a Vice President and General Manager at Intel.

As an executive, he helped Fortune 500 companies and governments modernize their digital architecture, and similarly, I am excited for the smart growth and development to come with the help of his leadership.

Collaboration among agencies, residents, and community partners will be a key measure of this growth, and together with Director Johnson, I will synchronize our tools - from modern IT capabilities such as Cloud, Big Data and Cybersecurity to Mobility, Social Media and Automation - to enhance the culture, systems and platforms that residents currently rely on to access services.

Fully becoming a smart city means careful planning, enlightened collaboration, innovation and lots of hard work, and in doing so, we serve to benefit from better informed and more engaged communities.

The more we can help our residents connect, the more resilient and productive we become as a city, so closing the digital divide is more than a goal, it is a practical solution that will bring people together and create wealth and wellness for all residents.

For us, this change starts from within, so I invite you to learn more about our plans to enhance Baltimore's IT ecosystem by visiting: https://moit.baltimorecity.gov/.

Looking Forward,

Mayor Catherine E. Pugh

City of Baltimore

New solicitor says police reform is his top priority

Baltimore's new solicitor says his top priority is to implement mandated reforms to the city's police department. Baltimore City Solicitor Andre Davis said at a news conference Wednesday that it would be his failure if his office has not reformed the police department in two to three years. (The Daily Record)

Baltimore among cities vying for Amazon's second headquarters

Amazon company officials announced Thursday that they are seeking a second headquarters location, which has prompted Baltimore to aggressively pursue the project. Baltimore is abuzz about the possibility of Seattle-based Amazon locating a second headquarters in the city.(WBAL 11)

“Most of the exhibits that we’ve put onin the past we have leased,” said Wanda Draper, the Lewis’ executive director. “This is an exhibit that we put together ourselves. We wanted to bring this community a collection by an esteemed African-American artist that they can’t see anywhere else.”(Baltimore Sun)

Squeegee Corps: From the Corner to Corporate

As Baltimore continues to address its reputation of being one of America's most violent cities, city officials have begun to address youth employment as one of the remedies. The Squeegee Corps started on Friday, in an initiative that takes squeegee boys and girls off of the corners where they would normally be asking for change, and gives them a job. (Real News)

Baltimore unveils first new school rebuilt under the 21st Century schools program

The first building rebuilt under a $1 billion initiative to replace Baltimore’s aging schools was unveiled Wednesday by local and state officials eager to tout their delivery on promises to modernize the city’s educationinfrastructure. (Baltimore Sun)

Baltimore plans to offer $2,500 a year property tax discount for police and firefightersBaltimore City Council

President Bernard C. “Jack” Young and Councilman Eric T. Costello are expected to introduce legislation that would allow the discount at a council meeting Monday. Young’s office provided an advance copy of the measure to The Baltimore Sun. (Baltimore Sun)

Mayor Pugh's Weekly Press Availability

Veterans Group Spruces Up School As 9/11 Service Project

As recently as 2010, Jeremy Wallick would have spent a fall afternoon like Saturday’s in the engine room of the submarine he called home for most of his hitch in the Navy. On Saturday, he was in East Baltimore, paint roller in hands, helping apply a coat of pastel-toned orange to the walls of an elementary school cafeteria. (Baltimore Sun)

Mayor Pugh Welcomes CityLab to Baltimore

CityLab Baltimore convened top urban stakeholders from around the country to discuss some of the most pressing issues US cities face. From blight and health to arts and culture, Mayor Pugh joined conversations that examined the building blocks of economic development and revitalization.

Now Accepting Applications for the Green, Healthy, Smart Challenge Grant

All City Schools are invited to apply for grant funds for student-led environmental projects! Grants range from $1,000-$2,500 and can be used for activities such as planting a schoolyard garden, holding a recycled art show, distributing recycling bins, and much more. Applications are due 11/3/17, those that are received earlier will receive funding sooner. (Department of Planning)

WorkBaltimore at Baltimore Convention Center

On Wednesday, September 27th, the City of Baltimore and the Department of Human Resources will host WorkBaltimore at the Baltimore Convention Center. This event is designed to connect Baltimore City residents to employers in the area. Over the month leading up to this event, the City will offer job-readiness workshops and related activities. (Department of Human Resources)

Meet the Winner's of Mayor Pugh's Teen Biz Challenge

The Teen Biz Challenge, presented by the City of Baltimore, in partnership with The Network for Teaching Entrepreneurship (NFTE) and supported by Grant Capital Management and The Commercial GROUP, selected 9 finalists to receive Teen Biz Challenge prizes. The competition seeks to bring exciting and innovative business ideas created by Baltimore's youth to fruition. (CharmTV)

Join in the fun with Free Fall Baltimore! The 12th annual Free Fall Baltimore presented by BGE returns Sunday, October 1 through Tuesday, October 31, 2017. A program of the Baltimore Office of Promotion & The Arts, Free Fall Baltimore offers hundreds of free arts and cultural events for the whole family throughout the month of October at participating venues throughout Baltimore City. (Baltimore Office of Promotion and the Arts)

Live Baltimore Celebrates City Schools and Neighborhoods

Mayor Pugh joined LIVE Baltimore, Baltimore City Public Schools, and community leaders for a screening of short films featuring Federal Hill Prep, Medfiled Heights Elementary, Hamilton Elementary/Middle School, highlighting City neighborhoods anchored by great schools, families, students and teachers. (CharmTV)

In Baltimore and Washington, D.C., fresh thinking about food

How does a city recoup from food emergencies — cutoffs of normal supply triggered by storms, droughts or civil unrest? How does it assure an ongoing supply of healthy and fresh foods, especially for low-income neighborhoods? Areport released in Baltimore this monthtakes a fresh look at the issue. It examines threats to Baltimore’s food supply and suggests responses to emergencies, from heavy snowstorms to terrorism, that can easily strangle the flow of food into the city. (Citiscope)

U.S. Conference Mayors (USCM) and Partner America Program Award Presentation and City of Baltimore Small Business Procurement Fair

Hosted by U.S. Conference of Mayors, Partner America Program, Mayor Catherine E. Pugh, and Mayor’s Office of Small, Minority and Women Business. Participants will find out about contracting opportunities with the City of Baltimore procuring agencies.

City Agency exhibitors will be in attendance to share contracting opportunities. In addition, there will be a program with speakers and presentation of the 2017 Partner America Small Business Advocate Award to Mayor Catherine E. Pugh.

For more information, call 410-396-3818. (Mayor's Office of Small, Minority and Women Business)

Apply for a MECU Neighborhood Event Grant by 10/1/17

Your community can earn up to $1,000 for an event such as block party, park clean up, or festival. Each year, the MECU Neighborhood Event Grants program awards cash grants to Baltimore neighborhood associations and community-based non-profit organizations for fun community events. (Baltimore Office of Promotion and the Arts)

For the latest government news and information visit the CharmTV Citizens' Hub. CharmTV provides the information you need about the issues, discussions and decisions that move Baltimore forward.

Friday, July 28th, 2017 | Volume 1, Edition 6

Good Day Baltimore!

On July 30th our beloved city will celebrate its 288th Birthday. To mark the occasion, I invite you

to join me this Sunday for a public celebration at City Hall at 2:00 p.m.

As I think about what Baltimore means to me, I am reminded of the countless pioneers and organizations who have impacted the world and who proudly call Baltimore their hometown.

These legacies are what enrich our collective narrative and daily lives! Like a prism, Baltimore's edge illuminates the dimension of our deep history, people and places.

On Monday, I stood with the Lethal Ladies Ladies of Bliss of the Baltimore Leadership School for Young Women, at the premier of their Fox Searchlight documentary STEP. I could feel the power of Baltimore’s brilliance in their presence and as I listed to their aspirations. It echoed louder than the standing ovation that greeted the cast and director, Amanda Lipitz, who is also a Charm City native. STEP beautifully documents the perseverance of Baltimore's next generation, so when it premieres in theaters on August 4th, help amplify their voices and support this great project!

the past and mobilize that perspective to create a critical path forward. And, they agreed. Though we have crossed many rivers, we must continue to be persistent in our path towards social and economic justice.

As the bedrock of civil rights defense, this week’s NAACP homecoming, added yet another ripple in our city's influence within and beyond our borders. We are fortunate to have an organization like the NAACP headquarters located in our city. In fact, I remember when it relocated to Baltimore

City from New York in 1986 because I was among the members on Executive Director Benjamin Hooks' welcoming committee.

I'm sure you can recall pivotal moments of your own,and I look forward to sharing them with you this weekend!

We all have a story to tell, and I want to hear your best Baltimore moments!

So, join me for Baltimore’s 288th Birthday Celebration, this Sunday, July 30th at 2:00 p.m. at the War Memorial Plaza!

Looking Forward,

Mayor Catherine E. Pugh

City of Baltimore

How Baltimore Quietly Became the Coolest City on the East Coast

As you approach Baltimore on I-95, you pass through a ring of weathered smokestacks and mechanical stalagmites that tell the story of a town shaped by the rise and fall of industry. Then the skyline appears, the logos atop the buildings a testament to newer economies: finance and health-care giants, digital insurgents, and the sportswear behemoth Under Armour. The impression is vaguely forboding, until you exit the freeway and the city’s quaintness catches you off guard, like a lily sprouting from the pavement. (Travel and Leisure)

Opening of West Baltimore Stormwater Project Focuses on Green-Career Opportunities

At a brand-new stormwater project in West Baltimore, City leaders were joined by those from Civic Works’ Baltimore Center for Green Careers to mark the launch of a stormwater management training program. This hands-on program will equip participants with detailed technical training for installing and maintaining stormwater projects. (Baltimore Department of Public Works)

The Atlantic, Bloomberg Philanthropies, and the Aspen Institute will host CityLab Baltimore, a half-day “pop-up” summit exploring the key challenges and opportunities faced by American cities today, from public health to cultural investment. The event, which is part of an ongoing partnership, will take place on Wednesday, August 2, from 2-5pm ET at the Stavros Niarchos Foundation Parkway Theater in Baltimore. (The Atlantic)

On Thursday, Mayor Pugh received the Chairman’s Award at the 21st Annual International African American Hotel Ownership and Investment Summit & Trade Show which is presented by the National Association of Black Hotel Owners, Operators & Developers (NABHOOD), Black Meetings & Tourism Magazine and Horizons International Group. This award is given to an individual who has demonstrated leadership and a commitment to provide equal opportunities to minorities in the hospitality and lodging sector; thereby, changing the economic fabric of a community. NABHOOD specifically cited Mayor Pugh's handling and restructuring of the Hilton Hotel and selection of a Convention and Visitors Bureau president for recognition. (NABHOOD)

Baltimore Teachers Union, American Federation of Teachers, BCPS Announce Results of B3 Program

The Baltimore Teachers Union, The American Federation of Teachers, Baltimore Public Schools, and the Mayors Office announced the results of the Baltimore Schools for Baltimore Students: Bringing Back Baltimore One Child At A Time program.

The five-week program's goal is to help boost enrollment in Baltimore City public schools. From June 19 to July 21, advocates knocked on more than 34,000 doors in hopes to get more children in school. The results say 329 new students enrolled in pre-k and 17 former drop-outs are now re-enrolled. (WMAR 2)

'Step' documentary gets the red-carpet treatment in Baltimore

The documentary, which was picked up earlier this year by Fox Searchlight Pictures and goes into national release Aug. 4, follows the team as it prepares for a prestigious tournament in Bowie. Shot in the weeks following the unrest after the April 2015 death of Freddie Gray while in police custody, the film focuses on three team members as they try to simultaneously prepare for the competition and their impending graduation, which comes complete with the pressures of trying to get into college — pressures exacerbated by their familial struggles, the city’s social unrest and scholastic performance that isn’t always in line with their ambitions.(Baltimore Sun)

Celebrate Baltimore's Birthday at City Hall

Join Mayor Pugh at War Memorial on Sunday for cake in celebration of Baltimore's 288th Birthday. The celebration starts Sunday, July 30th from 2:00 - 3:00 p.m. Free and open to the public. (City of Baltimore)

Let's Get Healthy Baltimore

The Baltimore City Health Department (BCHD) will launch a citywide fitness challenge to encourage all residents and employees in Baltimore City to get active. The BCHD and its partners will engaged City residents toward the goal of a billion steps by hosting fitness challenge events in communities across Baltimore City. (Baltimore Health Department)

Anthem House Grand Opening

Mayor Pugh's Back to School Rally is Next Saturday

Join Mayor Pugh for the Baltimore to School Rally on Saturday, August 5th from 11:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.There will be fun activities to celebrate summer, free school supplies and information to help you get ready for the start of school!

108th NAACP Annual Convention Returns to Baltimore

Register for the DPW Small Business Development Program

The Department of Public Works (DPW) supports economic and business development in Baltimore City and throughout the region. Serving one of the most diverse regions in the country, DPW invites local minorities, women, and/or disadvantaged businesses to learn more about its Small Business Development Training Program. (Department of Public Works)

Join HABC in Building a New Playground in McCulloh Homes!

HABC is partnering with Kaboom this August 26 and more than 200 volunteers are needed to help build a brand new playground to give the kids in the community the childhood they deserve. (Housing Authority of Baltimore City)

Thriving communities start with great design, and the Metro Heights at Mondawmin complex will not only create a great affordable housing product, but a sensible community plan built around direct mass transit. The Housing Authority of Baltimore City (HABC) is working closely with Enterprise Homes on this project to also serve low income, elderly and homeless families. (CharmTV)

AFRAM Festival Coming Soon

AFRAM is a celebration of African American life, music and culture and will be held Saturday, August 12th at Druid Hill Park. This family-oriented festival is filled with celebrity artists and local entertainers, children’s activities, arts, history, education, financial literacy, employment & job training, health & wellness and more. The Baltimore AFRAM Festival is presented by Mayor Catherine E. Pugh and the City of Baltimore with the support of the advisory board and steering committee. (City of Baltimore)

Baltimore Builds Expo Coming Soon

The 2017 Baltimore Builds Expo is coming this August 5 from 8:30-2PM at the Coppin State University Talon Center. Sign up using the link below to take a class, network, and meet with exhibitors offering insight, resources, and services that will help you to buy and rehab homes here in Baltimore. (Baltimore Housing and Community Development)

For the latest government news and information visit the CharmTV Citizens' Hub. CharmTV provides the information you need about the issues, discussions and decisions that move Baltimore forward.

Monday, July 17th, 2017 | Volume 1, Edition 5

Good Day Baltimore:

Saturday's Call to Action Youth Resource Fair was a major success. More than 50 service providers assembled at the War Memorial Building to enroll youth and young adults in educational programs and recreation leagues, workforce development training, physical and mental health-related services, and other vital programming.

I prefer a hands-on approach, and as the day progressed, I could see how one simple gesture, bringing everyone together under one roof, set the tone for real-time impact. Many who attended walked away with job placements, mentors, and more informed of free opportunities available at City agencies. This is the type of community building that leads to safer streets and healthier life outcomes - sharing information, going the extra mile to ensure that people understand the resources available to them, and motivation to get connected and be a part of the solution.

Violence reduction in Baltimore requires a multi-faceted approach, and by restoring the value of life, and the possibilities born within each day, I intend to send a message that we can no longer tolerate this destruction to lives and to our neighborhoods and communities.

Together we announced the proposal of local legislation that will make it a misdemeanor crime, punishable by a mandatory sentence of one year and a fine of $1,000 for possessing an illegal handgun within 100 yards of a park, a school, a church, a public building or another place of public assembly.

I know that more has to be done – that's why I requested a meeting with Governor Hogan to provide an update on our violence reduction strategy and ask that he provide assistance from the Maryland State Police, the Maryland Transit Administration and the Maryland Transportation Authority - but this is a start.

Nearly 90% of the murders this year have been committed using a handgun, and of the 184 victims this year, almost half of them had been arrested for a crime involving one. The handguns used in these crimes are not legally registered as required by Maryland law. And, the time is now, to attempt new and stronger measures to stop the possession of illegal handguns, and to limit judicial discretion in suspending sentences for those who illegally possess them.

My intention is not to arrest our problems away, but rather target those who willfully carry and use illegal weapons to harm and end lives. Through our efforts, I've discovered individuals involved in violent crime are likely on parole, have been on parole, or are parole violators. Therefore, I am working to increase collaboration between state probation officers and our police, to ensure that violent parole offenders are properly punished.

Determining how Baltimore addresses violence is a thoughtful process, mindful that we are also undertaking major police reform through a consent decree with the US. Department of Justice, and working to address root cause issues.

We regularly convene Call to Action meetings to bring parents, students, faith-based leaders, and other community members together because we are more likely to succeed by working together. If you would like to join efforts to reduce violence, I welcome you to contact my office.

Thank you for choosing to be a part of the solution.

Looking Forward,

Mayor Catherine E. Pugh

City of Baltimore

New Baltimore gun laws will 'put the right people in jail,' police chief says

Baltimore officials vow that stricter gun laws set to be introduced to the City Council will decrease violent crime and take illegal firearms off the streets.

Mayor Catherine Pugh, lawmakers, clergy members and business leaders held a press conference Friday to introduce two new bills, which will be introduced to the City Council on Monday. (Baltimore Business Journal)

MICA tapping into city's 'creative assets' with new entrepreneurship initiative

The Maryland Institute College of Art is launching a new incubation support initiative to promote arts entrepreneurship in the city.

Baltimore Creatives Acceleration Network, or B/CAN, will aim to foster the city's "creative" economy by supporting, educating and connecting local artists to the resources they need to build and grow their own business ventures. (Baltimore Business Journal)

The Bloomberg Harvard City Leadership Initiative welcomes its inaugural class of 40 mayors!

Today’s local government leaders are grappling with growing and complex challenges while trying to provide real results for citizens. While national governments around the world struggle, mayors must find new ways to use limited resources and deliver a wide range of services for growing populations. The Bloomberg Harvard City Leadership Initiative equips mayors and their senior leaders with cutting-edge tools and techniques to more effectively tackle pressing management challenges faced in their cities. (Bloomberg)

Mayor Pugh's Weekly Press Availability

Mayor Pugh was joined by MOED Director Jason Perkins-Cohen, Director of Financial Capability at the CASH Campaign of Maryland Courtney Bettle, and YouthWorkers to launch the YouthWorks Pay Card.

YouthWorks Pay Card is the NEW method of payment of wages to YouthWorks participants after a successful pilot last year. This will eliminate the need for paper paychecks and check-cashing fees some participants face when cashing checks. This also gives an opportunity to complement the financial education piece of the YouthWorks summer jobs program. (CharmTV)

PUBLIC NOTICE: Community Oversight Task Force Meeting

The first Community Oversight Task Force Meeting will be held in the Board Room of the Office of Civil Rights and Wage Enforcement located at 7 E. Redwood St., 9th Floor, Baltimore, MD 21202 on Wednesday, July 19th, from 5:00PM until 7:00PM. (City of Baltimore)

New West Baltimore police station unveiled after $4.5 million public-private renovation

Today, the Western District is a very different place. A garden with community seating, where residents can access free Wi-Fi, stretches across the front of the building. Words such as "trust" and "rebirth" are carved into the cement walkway. There's a room at the front of the building for community events, and a state-of-the-art gym and locker room facilities at the back for the district's officers. (Baltimore Sun)

SAVE THE DATE: Mayor Pugh's Back to School Rally

Join Mayor Pugh for the Baltimore to School Rally on Saturday, August 5th from 11:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. Free backpacks filled with school supplies will be distributed while supplies last, and children must be accompanied by an adult/parent or guardian. Featured family fun includes face painting, arts & crafts, a jumbo slide and game truck. Local organizations including the Enoch Pratt Free Library, The Y of Central Maryland, Baltimore Police and Fire Departments, and more will help celebrate school readiness. The Maryland Food Bank will also offer free fresh produce, so bring your own bag! To donate email: back2schoolrally@baltimorecity.gov. (City of Baltimore)

The Daily Record names several City officials to 2017 VIP List

The Daily Record named several City officials to its 2017 VIP List — Very Important Professionals Successful by 40 awards.

Honorees Include:

Lester Davis, Baltimore City Council

Michael G Fried, Baltimore City Health Department

Sara E. Gross, Baltimore City Department of Law

Councilman Isaac Yitzy Schleifer, Baltimore City

Steven Sharkey, Department of General Services

The Daily Record created the VIP List in 2011 to recognize professionals 40 years of age and younger who have been successful in Maryland. Winners, chosen by a panel of previous VIP List honorees and business leaders, were selected on the basis of professional accomplishments, community service and commitment to inspiring change. (The Daily Record)

SAVE THE DATE: AFRAM Festival

AFRAM is a celebration of African American life, music and culture and will be held Saturday, August 12th at Druid Hill Park. This family-oriented festival is filled with celebrity artists and local entertainers, children’s activities, arts, history, education, financial literacy, employment & job training, health & wellness and more. The Baltimore AFRAM Festival is presented by Mayor Catherine E. Pugh and the City of Baltimore with the support of the advisory board and steering committee.

These Baltimore middle school girls spent the week working on new ventures

Abisola Abina is passionate about spreading education.

“I think that every child should have an opportunity to get an education,” she said.

This week, the 12-year-old who attends KIPP Ujima Village Academy is learning how to turn that passion into a nonprofit. After four days developing an idea and hearing from entrepreneurs at Spark Baltimore, she was set to pitch the nonprofit at Morgan State on Friday.

It’s called DEAR, which stands for Drop Everything and Read. (Technically Baltimore)

OPPORTUNITY: DPW Small Business Development Program

The Department of Public Works (DPW) supports economic and business development in Baltimore City and throughout the region. Serving one of the most diverse regions in the country, DPW invites local minorities, women, and/or disadvantaged businesses to learn more about its Small Business Development Training Program. (Department of Public Works)

Baltimore teens built a system that sends text alerts during heroin overdose spikes

Since October, a group of six teenagers have been meeting for three hours on Saturdays at Code in the Schools’ offices in Station North. They’re working on a tool that utilizes mobile phones to address one aspect of the city’s heroin crisis.

Bad Batch Alert sends text messages to alert people to a spike in overdoses in a given area.

The application amplifies data from Emergency Medical Services that gets analyzed by the Baltimore City Health Department. (Technically Baltimore)

J-PAL North America partners with local governments to tackle homelessness and reduce incarceration

J-PAL North America, a research center at MIT, announced today that it will partner with three city and county governments to evaluate promising solutions to homelessness and other important policy challenges facing state and local governments in the U.S.

The City of Baltimore, Maryland; King County, Washington; and Santa Clara County, California, will work with J-PAL North America staff and leading academic researchers to test programs designed to help vulnerable individuals find and keep housing and to reduce jail time and recidivism for low-level offenders. (MIT News)

For the latest government news and information visit the CharmTV Citizens' Hub. CharmTV provides the information you need about the issues, discussions and decisions that move Baltimore forward.

Monday, July 10th, 2017 | Volume 1, Edition 4

Good Day Baltimore!

This morning I met with policy advocates at the American Heart Association’s Voices for Healthy Kids who are convening in Baltimore to learn about making children across the United States healthier through greater access to quality nutrition and physical activity. This conversation couldn't be more timely as my Call-to-Action continues to mobilize residents and resources to address youth engagement and to build prosperous, safe communities.

On Saturday, July 15th, I will host the next Day-of-Action, a Youth Resource Fair,from 9:00 a.m. to noon at the War Memorial Building that will connect bright young minds to community-based programming, opportunities, organizations and initiatives uplifting the city. The fair is designed to provide guidance to budding leaders and to resource young people with great potential but who may lack access or need mentorship.

I anticipate full, city-wide participation. If you know of someone who may benefit from attending, I invite you to be an ambassador for the cause. Please share these details far and wide.

If we allow the next generation to be shaped by a deficit-based narrative – by the negativity that attempts to defy the great promise of our future - we are laying the groundwork for a self-fulfilling prophecy. We must continue to seize challenges as opportunities for innovation. Even as we take simultaneous measures to reduce and mediate the spike in violence, I see the glass half full, because I've witnessed the Baltimore that is capable of greatness.

The movement for change is growing in our neighborhoods, and the foundation upon which we build is stronger thanks to your presence and commitment. I am proud of the ways everyday people own up to this vision - to connect, teach, engage, and protect each other - for the greater good of our city.

These efforts echo across City agencies as well.

With the support of my Office of Employment Development (MOED), participation continues to soar as more than 7,000 YouthWorkers meet and exceed goals at their job placement sites. Thanks to the hard work of Baltimore's Department of Recreation and Parks (BCRP) nearly 4,000 youth are actively participating in day camps and evening recreation across every zip code, and for those who still wish to enroll in summer activities, select programs are open for enrollment.

The Baltimore City Fire Department's (BCFD) Open House and Resource Fair is also fast-approaching. BCFD will open its doors at Engine House 35 (430 Maude Avenue)on Thursday, July 13th from 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. for a day of recruitment, meet and greets with firefighters and exclusive tours behind the scenes of an active fire house. Residents can pick up fire alarms, learn how to create a safety plan, and so much more.

Let's keep building, Baltimore!

If we challenge the status quo with our words and actions and use the achievements of each other as the examples by which we set our expectation - our city will grow stronger, safer and more united!

Looking Forward,

Mayor Catherine E. Pugh

City of Baltimore

Demand Based Parking Meter Rate Setting

Beginning in the Summer of 2017, the Parking Authority of Baltimore City will use actual demand for parking spaces to determine the hourly parking meter rate on blocks in the Central Business District. Using data collected every six months, the Parking Authority will adjust rates to help create one or two available parking spaces on each block, making it easier for parkers to find parking downtown and spend more time enjoying Baltimore. (Baltimore Parking Authority)

Baltimore youth jobs programs offer path to careers for city youth

Na'Thaia Huntley wanted nothing more than a job after graduating from Paul Lawrence Dunbar High School in 2014, but, with no experience, her options were limited.

She'd applied for a job through YouthWorks — a city program that offers summer employment for thousands of young people each year — and was invited to join a job training session for the program's private sector initiative, Hire One Youth. After completing the training, she earned an internship with Rosedale Federal Bank. (Baltimore Sun)

After years of living away from his native Baltimore, Gregory Morton was looking for a hometown haven. Little did he know that his search would lead to a property so filled with history that he would be proud to share it with the world.

Today, home for the 35-year-old Morton is 524 S. Dallas St. in Fells Point — one of five alley houses on the street that abolitionist Frederick Douglass had built in the 1890s. (Baltimore Sun)

Incoming U.S. Conference of Mayors (USCM) PresidentMayor Mitch Landrieuof New Orleans joined dozens of mayors from across the country to urge Americans to move past Washington’s stalled partisan gridlock and instead, look locally for leadership that governs with vision and delivers results. The bipartisan group unveiledLeadership for America: Mayors’ Agenda for the Future,(Twitter hashtag#MayorsAgenda) a policy proposal that will fix our crumbling infrastructure, ensure quality affordable healthcare, promote safe and secure communities, expand our workforce to drive economic growth and create equitable communities to increase opportunity for all.

Each mayor pointed forcefully to the results occurring in their cities and towns each day that encourage economic innovation, deliver quality, affordable healthcare, spur creation of good-paying jobs and keep the country moving forward – in a time of paralysis and dysfunction in Washington. With a rallying cry from mayors of both parties calling on Americans to look to cities for inspired leadership, USCM is embarking on an aggressive, year-long campaign to highlight where real work is getting done: in our cities and metropolitan regions. (United States Conference of Mayors)

City schools chief Sonja Santelises and her staff decided to pair Rodman and two other troubled schools with Commodore John Rodgers Elementary/Middle in East Baltimore, regarded as one of the system's best. The teachers will share lessons, visit each others' classrooms and collaborate with their counterparts across the city.

"This has such powerful potential," Santelises said. The three schools getting the help from Commodore John Rodgers are among five in the city targeted for overhaul this year through an expiring federal grant program. (Baltimore Sun)

Police reform oversight applicants vying for position in Baltimore

Dozens listened at Coppin State University as applicants from all over the country made their case to help reform Baltimore's police department.

The agreement between Baltimore City and the Department of Justice, known as the consent decree, requires an Independent Monitor be chosen to make sure police reform actually happens. Twenty-six different firms applied for the job. (WMAR2)

Baltimore data day returns

Baltimore Data Day is an annual workshop to help communities expand their capacity to use technology and data to advance their goals. At this 8th Annual Baltimore Data Day, community leaders, nonprofit organizations, governmental entities and civic-minded technologists come together to see the latest trends in community-based data and learn how other groups are using data to support and advance constructive change.

Baltimore Data Day is structured around a series of "how to" interactive workshops in which people who work with data will explain what data is available, how to access data, and why data can be actionable for communities. The event is on July 14th from 8:30am-4:30pm at the University of Baltimore. (Baltimore Neighborhoods Indicator Alliance)

Police Commissioner's basketball league kicks off

Monday night's game was about more than buckets, it's bridging the gap between law enforcement and the community they serve.
The 3rd Annual Police Commissioner's Basketball League kicked off at the Under Armour Center on East Fayette Street. The league is made up of six different age groups from elementary to high school boys and girls. About 600 kids are involved, not including the parents and coaches. (WMAR 2)

Using data to respond to the opioid epidemic

This week, STAT News covered the opioid crisis in an article, “As new and lethal opioids flood U.S. streets, crime labs race to identify them,” in which Dr. Wen speaks about using real-time data to make informed decisions about opioid overdose outreach to hotspots in Baltimore.

“We act on that information in real time,” Dr. Wen said. “Even if it’s imperfect data, that data is critical in a time of a public health emergency.” (Baltimore City Health Department)

BCFD Open House and Resource Fair

On Thurs. July 13 from 3pm-7pm, City residents will have opportunities to tour the fire station and Mobile Safety Center, learn about BCFD job opportunities, fire prevention as well as a host of other city resources.(Baltimore City Fire Department)

BGE welcomes second class of Smart Energy interns

Baltimore Gas and Electric Company Smart Energy Workforce Development Program welcomed its second class of high school interns from Baltimore vocational-technical high schools Wednesday. Twenty-five students from Mergenthaler Vocational Technical High School, Green Street Academy and Edmonson-Westside Vocational Technical High School will spend five weeks gaining experience in their chosen vocational tracks. (Baltimore Business Journal)

2017 NAACP Convention needs conference volunteers

The National Association for the Advancement of Colored People's (NAACP) 108th Convention will be held in Baltimore July 22nd - 26th. Volunteer opportunities are still available. Lend a hand and sign up to make a difference! (NAACP Baltimore)